F L O R I D A S TAT E UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020
YOUR SATISFACTION IS MUSIC TO OUR EARS. 3800 W. Tennessee St. | Tallahassee (850) 575-0168
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19/20
SPONSORS DIAMOND LEVEL
LOUISE IRELAND HUMPHREY EXCELLENCE FUND
JI M TAYLOR
P L AT I N U M L E V E L
RON SACHS & GAY WEBSTER-SACHS
GOLD LEVEL LI N DA J. S M I T H , Ph D K E N K ATO & N A N NAGY
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S I LV E R L E V E L CYNTHIA TIE & JOHN TAYLOR
BERNADETTE & ROGER LUCA
HERB & MARY JERVIS
LAURIE & KELLY DOZIER ENDOWMENT MIKEY BESTEBREURTJE & WILSON BAKER
BRONZE LEVEL ARCHITECTURE INTERIOR DESIGN PLANNING
C HA RL ES S. & SUSA N A. STRATTON
Architects Lewis + Whitlock
JIM & BETTY ANN RO D GERS
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ARCHITECTS
L AR RY & J O DE E B
STEFA NIE & ERWIN JAC KSO N
GILCHRIST ROSS CROWE
DYL AN SU M N E R & R EGAN JAG E R
T E R ESA B E AZ L EY W I DM E R
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M AYDA & KIM W I L L I AM S
THE VAUG H N FAM I LY
IN-KIND SPONSORS
SPONSOR SUPPORT DOES NOT INDICATE ARTISTS’ ENDORSEMENT OF ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE.
T H AT E M P OW E R I N G E AC H OT H E R G I V ES US T H E P OW E R TO C H A N G E T H E WO R L D FO R T H E G O O D O F A L L . Potential is just the start of a push toward greatness. At FSU, the collaborative culture and supportive community helps to cultivate an environment that encourages innovative thinking. Because when we all bring our own unique perspectives and work together toward a common goal, we can all help make tomorrow better than today. Start your journey at fsu.edu/belivingproof
Be living proof.
A Note from the Director
T
hank you for making the 2019–20 Opening Nights Season a success! Attendance for our performances and the caliber of the artists and attractions that have graced our stages have been exceptional. We look forward to sharing outstanding spring performances with you as well. As we’ve noted throughout the year, the current season has been dedicated to the memory of President Emeritus, Sandy D’Alemberte, for his vision and leadership in launching what was first known as “Tallahassee: Seven Days of Opening Nights,” 22 years ago. The origins of this seven-day series developed into what has become a robust and expanded number of programs known as Opening Nights at Florida State University. On Thursday, March 5, of this year, Opening Nights is presenting Sir James Galway, accompanied by Lady Jeanne Galway and Shelton G. Berg. This concert is part of Sir James’ 80th Birthday Celebration and special elements are being added to the evening to acknowledge this personal
milestone. In addition, we will recognize Patsy Palmer, Sandy’s widow who will be joining us for the performance. Sir James has sold over 30 million recordings throughout the world and has toured the globe extensively performing classical music, film scores, and popular songs, all the while promoting the arts through his passionate work in music education. To that end, there will be a Master Class for the Flute Studio students in the College of Music that will be open to the public for observation. For additional information on the Master Class, please contact Calla MacNamara at cmacnamara@fsu.edu. Warmly,
Michael Blachly Director, Opening Nights at Florida State University OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 5
PROUD SPONSOR OF OPENING NIGHTS
and the arts for more than 20 years
Public Relations. Public Affairs. Crisis. | Tallahassee. Orlando. Boca Raton. Washington, D.C. | 850.222.1996 | sachsmedia.com
CONTENTS Florida State University John Thrasher, President Opening Nights Staff Michael Blachly Director Lori Elliott Development Director Brad Lister Ticket Office Manager
11
Steve Solomon
13
Riders In The Sky
15
Sir James Galway
Calla MacNamara Education & Engagement Manager Rachael Dirr Marketing Assistant to the Director Rachel Gebeloff Operations Assistant to the Director Katelyn Woods Programming Assistant to the Director Amanda Cole Multimedia Design Specialist University Communications, Creative Services Rodney Johnson Assistant Director of Creative Services University Communications, Creative Services
Ryan Hamilton
17
George Hinchliffe’s UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN
19
Chris Botti
21
Opening Nights
Photo by Steph MacKinnon
Development Council Gus Corbella, Chair Michael Obrecht, Chair-elect Lauren Bacon
23
The Second City
25
Michael Rosato
Sara Bayliss Brandi Brown Kimberly Criser Brooke Hallock Eric Friall Heather Mitchell
27
Nan Nagy Ron Sachs
Dala
Susan Stratton
Michael Rosato’s “Take My Hand” Mural
Cover: George Hinchliffe’s UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN Photo by Allison Burke OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 7
2019-20 MEMBERS A S O F 2 / 1 0 / 2 0 2 0 Producer’s Circle Bart & Tamara Aitken Law Office of Linda A. Bailey, P.A. Jann & Ray Bellamy
Dr. & Mrs. Raymond Cottrell
Kathryn Karrh Cashin*
Emily Millett
Bill & Caryl Donnellan*
Pete & Bonnie Chamlis*
Ed & Linda Oaksford*
Elizabeth Dudek
Jim & Sandy Dafoe*
Michael & Julie Obrecht*
Lori Elliott & Doug Hall
Kathleen Daly & Reinhart Lerch*
Dr. Sara C. Pankaskie
Logan & Maryanne Brooks
Samuel Allen & Sharon Gordon-Girvin
Phillip & Betty Brown
Dave & Margaret Groves*
Drs. Gib & Ruth DeBusk
Childers Construction Company
Myron & Judy Hayden*
Sandra & William Dixon
Eleanore Rosenberg & Larry Sack*
Mart P. Hill*
Pamala J. Doffek*
Ray & Michele Runo
Calynne & Lou Hill*
Patrick & Kathy Dunnigan
Del & Diane Hughes
Erin Ennis & Brad Hollis
Patterson Lamb, Jean Sadowski & Sunny Phillips*
Bret & Leigh Ingerman*
Steve & Linda Evans
Floyd & Eileen Self
Doug & Melissa Ingram*
The Hon. Stephen Everett & Meghan Everett
Doug & Cynthia Sessions
Keith & Vangie Fields
Gary & Patricia Smith*
Louise & Marc Freeman*
Kent Spriggs & Kathleen Laufenberg*
Gus & Tanya Corbella* Janet & Craig Dennis Richard & Judi Earls Robert & Jan Estevez Eric & Andrea Friall TD & Kathi Giddings* Debby Kearney* The Lockwood Law Firm Geof Mansfield & Jennifer Fitzwater* Rick & Nancy McClure Senator Bill Montford, CEO, Florida Association of District School Superintendents
Wendy Johnston Paull & Nita Kirkpatrick Jon & Jean Kline* Stacey Lampkin* Lawton & Beth Langford* Leah T. Martineau & Duncan W. Martineau Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Murray Moore Sr.
Mike & Jeri Damasiewicz
Tom & Ginny Futch Elenita Gomez & Jack Brennan* Gina & Scott Gorman William Graham & Shelley Hill Kristin & Sheldon Gusky*
Stephen & Patricia C. Peters Fred & Anna Roberson*
The Sisters
Joyce & Lee Stillwell* Del Suggs & Denice Jones* Warren & Paula Sutton* Richard Turner David & Jane Watson
Judy & Mike Pate*
Patsy Palmer*
Helen D. Haines*
Jason & Katie Pernell
Mary Anne Price*
Greg Hajcak
The Piekarewicz Family*
Monroe & Tannye Rogers
David & Kathy Hale*
The Ted Radey Fund
Doug & Debbie Russell
Donald Hansard & Nada Marz
James & Sherrill Ragans*
Drs. Sandra & Warren Schoenfisch
Linda Harkey*
Ron Shaeffer*
Tracy Hatch & Brenda Buchan*
Debbie Shapiro
Deborah Williams & Rick Hays
Barbara Shapiro
Ken & Debbie Hodges
Alicia Smith
Lori Holcomb & Robert Fingar*
Ingolf Askevold*
Bass Sox Mercer P.A.*
Jenny L. Jeffers
Ludmila De Faria*
Kip & Bev Wells*
Mark & Lisa Jones
Sara & Slater Bayliss
Jeffrey & Jessica Kahn
Nancy & Dustin Heintz
John & Linda Kilgore*
Greg & Karen Boebinger*
Kelly & Rip Kirby*
John & Jenny Bryant
Robert & Gail Knight*
Drs. Gary & Kathy Burnett
Bill & Dottie Lee*
Jim & Louise Cobbe
Pete & Cindy Lewis
David & Mary Coburn*
Brian R. Lockwood
Margaret & Chris Cooksey
Marge Masterman*
Carol Cooper
Emoryette McDonald
Mr. & Mrs. L. Thomas Cox, Jr.
Yvonne E. McIntosh, Ph.D.*
Trelles D’Alemberte & Clay Roberts
Jayne Standley* Janet R. Thornton* Marjorie Turnbull* Kathleen Villacorta & Carol Gregg Hart* Tanya & Tony Weaver MD
Partner Level Jonathan & Kathleen Bass, Sebastian, Jordan & Isabella Bass
Friend Level Drs. Charles & Sharon Aronovitch*
Bob & Mary Bedford*
Karen & Bob Cohen*
Michael & Judy Blachly
Greg & Sharon Beaumont*
Robyn S. Blank
Joe Beckham & Patti Sudduth*
Eileen & Don Bourassa*
Don Beeckler*
Grossman, Furlow & Bayo, LLC*
Carol & Brian Berkowitz*
Robert & Nicole Brown
Rob Contreras & Ellen Berler*
Brandi & Steve Brown
Scott & Jennifer Boyles
Steve Carter & Phyllis Thomson*
Judge Steve & Yvonne Brown
Ken Cashin & Lisa Chase
Steven & Mary Bryan*
Suzanne & Armand Cognetta
Elizabeth Carlton*
8 | 2019–20 OPENING NIGHTS
Sharon & John Harris
The McNeal/Dunn Family Frank & Francesca Melichar* Abraham Middleton & Dr. Sara Hart
Jason & Brenda Watts Lisa & Bernie Waxman* Carmen & John Whiddon Gary & Wendy Williams* Lynda Roser & Marilyn Yon David & Mary Jean Yon*
Associate Level
Elizabeth T. Dameron* Bob & Trudy Deyle* Jeannie Dixon*
John Dozier & Martha Paradeis*
Dr. Cedric & Nadine Shepheard
Jane & Mike Dunn*
Lee Kendall Metcalf
Pamela & Charles Shields*
Grady Enlow & June Dollar
Susan & Jack Fiorito*
Kent Strauss Management & Realty Inc.*
Facilitated Solutions, LLC, Jeff Blair & Deborah Lawson
Heather Mitchell, Tallahassee Community College Foundation
Patricia Flowers*
Dan Taylor & Tony Archer*
Rick & Joyce Fausone*
Jason & Vivian Moore*
Barbara Foorman*
Herbert & Kathi Thiele
James N. Floyd
Major David E. & Paula S. Fountain
Dr. Ernesto & Lisa Umana*
Diane & John Fogarty
Archie Gardner & Michael Moore*
Tommy & Kim Verran
Mark Fontaine
Robert & Dianne Weinstein
Tim & Jamela Fordyce
James White & Elizabeth Jackson
Steve & Kim Gabbard
Richard & Christine Gordon Bruce & Elizabeth Gould
Marilynn Wills*
Durene Gilbert*
LTC & Mrs. John Owens
Frank Kapplow & Mona Hamilton*
John & Libby Woodward
Howard Glassman & Diane Salz
Nancy Wright*
Robert & Marylou Hinkle
Mr. & Mrs J. Byron Greene
Morgan Patterson, Gregg Patterson, IMS
Marilyn Young & Michael Launer
Steven & Dale Grigas
Al & Susan Kaempfer
Debut Level
Karen Hawkins
John & Helen Keaton
Barbara L. Aguirre
Matthew Keelean*
Francisco J. Alarcon
Barbara Hamby & David Kirby*
Eileen Albrigo
David & Linda Knopf
James & Marsha Antista
Paul Deitchman & Ira Kramer*
Randy & Cathy Armour
Ronald & Grace Labasky
John Balberchak
Jennifer & Jay LaVia*
Adrienne Barnes
Drs. Benjamin & Mary Sterner Lawson
Darryl & Cathy Beacher
Linda Enfinger
Marie Beverly Go Owen & Chrys Goodwyne
Myles Hollander* Amy M. Jones*
Jim Lee The Lemberg-Bangura Family* Leslie Lundberg* Dr. & Mrs. Edward Lyon* Douglas & Joyce Mann* Dr. Marion Merzer & Martin Merzer*
William V. Belcher Heather R. Bishop Joseph & Stephanie Borras Adrienne Bowen Brittany Brafford Nolia & Bill Brandt Ann & Bill Brattain*
John & Mary Geringer*
Lynda Hartnig & Tom Nicholson Eleanor & John Hawkins* Maura & William Heebink Stewart Hinson Linda & Rick Hyson Chet Kaufman* C. Laurence & Lucinda Keesey Christine M Keller Steve & Beth Kelly Hon. Lewis & Patsy Killian* Dr. & Mrs. John England Richard & Nevelda LaCondre Bruce & Lametria Lamont Charles & Dian LaTour* Grace & Tom Lawhorn Mark & Jan LeBar Randie Denker & Steve Leitman
Corbin & Murray Moore Nola and Faisal Munasifi Dr. & Mrs. Cecil B Nichols Jerilyn & Greg Nikiel*
Dr. Christine Peterson* Nikki Pritchett & Stephen Fox Pat Ramsey Krista Rankin Billie Reardon Kenneth J. & Charlotte Orth Reckford LaShawn Riggans Allene & Richard Roberts Stephen Y. Roberts, Sr. Lise Ryder Mr. & Mrs. M. Sandberg Genevieve C. Scott Sealey Team Property Management Dr. & Mrs. Phillip & Karen Sharp Steve & Cindy Sheppard Mirella & Theo Siegrist* Philip & Amanda Slama Robert & Sharon Slaten
Joan Nolte
Bobby & Terrie Brooks
Sam & Amber Nunnally
Bette-Lou & Peter Brown
OliverSperry Renovation*
Elwood Carlson & Judy Harlow
John & Denise O’Rourke
Dr. & Mrs. Richard Chichetti
Ross Obley & Deborah JusticeObley*
Richard & Lauren Clary*
Pamela Perrewe & Gerald Ferris
Andra Scott Cornelius
Tom & Dianne Phillips*
Ellen & Bob Crabtree
Joyce V. Phipps
Jack & Lea Craig
Julian & Betty Proctor
Ron & Donna Krell
Catherine May & Michael Cunningham
Dr. Rodney Reeves
Katharine Davis
Susan McConnell*
James & Judith Underhill
Bill & Connie Reinhardt*
Drs. Nancy & Michael Diamonti
Tom, Leisa, & Sean McCullion
Jay & Susan Walton
Margaret Ross
John Flesch & Krista Dolan
Laney McLean & Ken Walser
Tim & Teresa White
Claudia & John Scholz*
Richard & Nora Doran*
Jane & Neal Meadows
Palmer & Leslie Williams*
Richard Senesac*
Rodney & Virlindia Doss
Andrea Medvid
Ronald & Annette Wilson
Betty Serow
John Douglas
James H. Melton
Dr. Iris Wilson
DeLopez & Shahawy*
Dr. Carolyn Drazinic
Rhonda & Raymond Merritt
Ken Winker*
* Member for 5 years or more
Robert & Linda Clickner*
Terence Leland Terry & Fran Lewis Jane Lo & SJ Sher LTC & Mrs. John Owens Allison & Danny Manausa Blake Canter & Melanie Mason Dr. Mary R. Massey Susan & Jim Mau
Lane & Fraser Smith Margaret Stephens Susan Stephens & Bruce Campbell* John Stewart Mr. & Mrs. Jesse F. Suber Lon Sweat & Nancy Brand Dr. Bill & Ida Thompson Jon & Angela Turner
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 9
Insurance. It’s a Beautiful Thing
31 3 1 L o nn bl adh Rd. | w w w. ear lbac on. c om | 8 7 8 - 2 1 2 1
Building
STRONGER COMMUNITIES
Through the Arts since 1895. In celebration of 125 years of service to our hometown, your Capital City Bankers proudly present Kristin Chenoweth in Concert and the 2019-20 Season of Opening Nights. We appreciate our loyal clients who make it possible to support Opening Nights this season, just as we have since its premiere.
402.7500 www.ccbg.com
THURSDAY
February
27 7:30 P.M.
LOCATION
Opperman Music Hall TICKETS
$40
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670
Photo by Marshall Meadows
GENRE
comedy
A native of Brooklyn, Steve Solomon grew up in the multi-ethnic neighborhood of Sheepshead Bay, where he learned early on how to use his gift for imitating accents to his advantage. At age 55, he left his academic career behind and ventured into the business world. After a noble effort, a severe economic and emotional downturn and his back to the wall, Steve turned his attention to his latent love of making people laugh. He created his first show, the three-time, award-winning My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m In Therapy! The show has been met with rave reviews to sold-out crowds throughout the country and overseas and has become one of the longest running one-man comedy shows in history. Continued on page 31
SPONSORED BY
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 11
Be wowed. James Taylor Family Florida State University Season Sponsor
MONDAY
March
2
7:30 P.M. LOCATION
Goodwood Museum & Gardens TICKETS
$45
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670
Riders In The Sky
GENRE
western, comedy
America’s Favorite Cowboys For over four decades, Riders In The Sky have focused on preserving the heritage and tradition of Western Music. Their performances incorporate a body of work that is both serious and humorous, full of beautiful vocal harmonies and excellent technique on the guitar, fiddle, acoustic bass and (of course…) accordion! Billboard magazine counts them as one of “the most historically significant acts in the history of American music.” The Riders have been members of the Grand Ole Opry for 35 years, have recorded 38 albums, received two GRAMMY® Awards, including one for their original song “Woody’s Roundup” from Toy Story 2. Traveling 5 million miles since they began, the group has performed at The White House, The Hollywood Bowl and Carnegie Hall among their over 7,200 concerts in all 50 states and 13 different countries. Throughout their career they’ve performed alongside the likes of Roy Rogers, Kathy Mattea, Waylon Jennings, Clint Black, Willie Nelson, Alabama and Emmylou Harris & The Hot Band. Continued on page 31
SPONSORED BY
J I M TAY LOR
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 13
Talk is Chique Jeffersonian conversation is served
On the Rockies
Bicyclist conquers Great Divide
Krewes
PROUDLY SUPPORTING
Control
‘Springtime’ nears milestone
LeRoy’s Place Museum memorializes Gov. Collins
+
Weddings
2018 Find your
GREAT GETAWAYS
» GRANDPARENTS AS PARENTS » WOMEN’S PROFILES TALLAHASSEEMAGAZINE.COM
IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA SINCE 1979
4 GREAT GETAWAYS: NEW ADVENTURES CLOSE TO HOME P. 103
MAR-APR 2015
Patients First
TALLAHASSEE MAGAZINE
the Arts
perfect venue
+
Belly Up to the Blow Dry Bar Healthful Meals Made for You at Home Grab Ahold of Tallahassee’s Best Sandwiches
INSIDE: THE BIGGEST NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS ISSUE EVER!
High-Tech Bicycles 2-wheelers pick up speed
Facing Fears In the trees on a zipline adventure
Notes to Live By
A chaplain’s lost work resurfaces
POET’S WORLD
Masters of verse at FSU explore a universe of words
City’s
MUSIC SCENE
comes alive
Stay connected to Tallahassee’s latest activities and attractions. Read Tallahassee Magazine in print and online, plus like and follow on social media for the latest events and happenings. @tallahasseemag | tallahasseemagazine.com
THURSDAY
March
5
7:30 P.M. LOCATION
Ruby Diamond Concert Hall TICKETS
$60 | $45
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670 GENRE
classical, recital
Sir James Galway— flute With Lady Galway, flute Shelton G. Berg, piano
A Collaboration with the Florida State University College of Music Globally renowned as the supreme interpreter of the classical flute repertoire, Sir James Galway is a consummate performer whose appeal transcends all musical boundaries. With over 30 million recordings sold worldwide, extensive international touring, frequent television appearances, tireless promotion of the arts and his passionate work in music education, Galway has been a household name for decades. His uniquely expressive interpretations of the flute literature span an extensive range of genres, from classical masterworks to high-profile commissions, and provide the benchmark standard for all modern flutists. He has also collaborated on film soundtracks including The Lord of the Rings, and partnered with popular artists such as Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Joni Mitchell and Sir Elton John. The diversity of Galway’s repertoire reflects his impressive musical range, and has served to establish him as an artist of the very highest stature. Continued on page 33
SPONSORED BY
LOUI SE I R E L A N D H UMPH R EY EXC EL L E N C E FU N D OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 15
FINE &
Performing Arts AT TALLAHASSEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ART EXHIBIT: KALINA WINSKA Feb. 13 – Mar. 19
THEATRE TCC! PRESENTS: CABARET
Monday – Friday 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.
April 3 – 4 | 8 p.m. April 10 – 11 | 8 p.m. April 5 & 12 | 2 p.m.
TCC Fine Art Gallery
Turner Auditorium
CAPITAL CITY BAND OF TCC: SPRINGTIME TALLAHASSEE CONCERT March 28 | Time - TBD
CAPITAL CITY BAND OF TCC: SPRING CONCERT April 20 | 7 p.m. Turner Auditorium
Downtown Tallahassee
ART EXHIBIT: ANNUAL JURIED STUDENT ART EXHIBIT April 2 – 16 Monday – Friday 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. TCC Fine Art Gallery
TCC JAZZ BAND: SPRING CONCERT April 22 | 7 p.m. Turner Auditorium
TCC JAZZ BAND: TALLAHASSEE JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL April 27 | Noon Tallahassee Museum
SATURDAY
March
7
7:30 P.M. LOCATION
Richard G. Fallon Theatre TICKETS
$40
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670 GENRE
comedy
Ryan Hamilton “One of the most reliably funny regulars at the Comedy Cellar, an observational comic who often riffs on the absurdity of his own wholesomeness.” — The New York Times Ryan Hamilton’s recently released first stand-up special, the one-hour Netflix original, Happy Face, follows a wealth of television appearances and a non-stop headlining tour. Armed with the unique perspective of growing up in rural Idaho to become a favorite in the New York stand-up comedy scene, he’s one-of-a-kind. Ryan has been named one of Rolling Stone’s Five Comics to Watch, and recent appearances include The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Conan, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and opening spots for Jerry Seinfeld.
SPONSORED BY
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 17
YOUR STORIES, OUR COMMUNITY POWERED BY
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SUNDAY
March
22 7:30 P.M. LOCATION
Ruby Diamond Concert Hall TICKETS
$40 | $25
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670
Photo by Allison Burke
GENRE
instrumental, pop
George Hinchliffe’s UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN The Ukulele Orchestra is a touring musical group that has been delighting audiences, raising the roof, selling out performances, and receiving standing ovations since 1985. This all-singing, all-strumming group has been performing for 35 years using only a fistful of ukuleles and maintaining that all genres of music are available for reinterpretation. The premise sounds astoundingly simple: instruments, voices, no gimmicks, no light show. Yet The New York Times exclaims, “they extract more than seems humanly possible from so small and so modest an instrument.” Millions have enthused over the years about the fact that the Orchestra tears the house down with a lively, touching, catchy, emotive, stomping show, threaded with humor and wit, which inexplicably draws the audience in to a joyous world beyond the conflicts of musical genres and transcends differences between a serious concert and entertainment. Continued on page 39 OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 19
In the heart of Tallahassee, where the little things mean everything. 101 S. ADAMS ST~TALLAHASSEE, FL 32301 ~ (850)224-5000~ WWW.TALLAHASSEE.DOUBLETREE.COM
MONDAY
March
30 7:30 P.M. LOCATION
Ruby Diamond Concert Hall TICKETS
$75 | $65
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670 GENRE
jazz, pop, crossover
Chris Botti For over two decades, GRAMMY® Award-winning master trumpeter and composer Chris Botti has amassed a spectacular variety of honors, including multiple Gold and Platinum albums, to become the nation’s largest selling instrumental artist. Whether he’s performing with illustrious symphonies or at renowned venues around the globe, his unparalleled crystalline and poetic sound transcends musical boundaries. Chris Botti is the complete package: a dazzling trumpeter at home in everything from jazz to pop to rock, whose joy at being onstage is infectious.
SPONSORED BY
Continued on page 45
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 21
Proud to partner with Opening Nights to provide cultural opportunities for the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Bend W A L M A R T. C O M
COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY
WE ARE PROUD TO CALL TALLAHASSEE HOME. IT’S WHY THE TALLAHASSEE DEMOCRAT AND TALLAHASSEE.COM ARE DEDICATED TO HELPING YOU CONNECT, UNDERSTAND, ACT AND THRIVE. Our committed team of journalists work every day to keep you informed about what is happening in the capital city and strive to make a difference in the lives of people. PROUD TO CALL TALLAHASSEE HOME | DEDICATED TO MAKING AN IMPACT
WEDNESDAY
April
1
7:30 P.M. LOCATION
Richard G. Fallon Theatre TICKETS
$40
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670 GENRE
comedy, improv
The Second City Laughing for all the Wrong Reasons
Funny ‘cause it’s true. Look back and laugh. Too soon. The Second City is here to break all the comedy rules they made famous in this all-new, all-hilarious revue that will leave you laughing…and questioning your very existence on this lonely planet. Okay, maybe not questioning your existence—but you’re guaranteed to re-think everything you thought you knew about what’s funny! Starring the next generation of comedy superstars, there are about a bazillion right reasons to not miss this show!
SPONSORED BY Continued on page 45
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 23
Tallaha ee is a city ar s c expre iĐž and we supp t Opening NighĘŚ as a shining example crea vity in r c munity. @CITYOFTLH
Mayor Pro Tem Curtis Richardson, Commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox, Mayor John E. Dailey, Commissioner Elaine W. Bryant, Commissioner Jeremy Matlow
THURSDAY
April
16 5:30 P.M. RECEPTION 6:30 P.M. LECTURE LOCATION
FSU Alumni Center Ballroom TICKETS
$25 Includes a pre-lecture reception with the artist openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670 GENRE
Michael Rosato
spoken word, visual arts
Chain of Parks Art Festival Presenting Artist Moderated by Preston McLane, Director, Museum of Fine Arts at Florida State University
Michael Rosato specializes in designing and painting large-scale murals for public and private spaces. Mr. Rosato has been commissioned to create artworks for display in museum exhibits, corporate headquarters, retail spaces, restaurants, sports arenas, outdoor venues and private residences. His recent mural of abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman, has received international acclaim. Mr. Rosato describes his style as representational realism and he enjoys telling vivid and often emotional stories through his work. His murals can be seen in venues across the country, including the Oklahoma City National Memorial; Texas Motor Speedway; the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History; Bacardi Headquarters in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Globe Life Park, home to the Texas Rangers; the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Museum; the Chesapeake Country Mural Trail; the National Museum of the Marine Corps and the Harriet Tubman Mural at the Harriet Tubman Museum in Cambridge, Maryland.
SPONSORED BY
LAU R I E & KELLY D OZ I E R END OW ME N T
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 25
MONDAY
April
27 7:30 P.M. LOCATION
Goodwood Museum & Gardens TICKETS
$40
openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.7670 GENRE
folk, pop
Dala “Dala can sing! What beautiful flights of melody and harmony.” — Dennis O’Toole, The Peterborough Examiner Juno nominees and winners of the 2010 Canadian Folk Music Award for Vocal Group of the Year, Amanda Walther and Sheila Carabine of Dala write and sing in harmony best described as angelic. These two best friends met in their high school music class in 2002; they have since released five albums and toured extensively across North America. Darlings of the Canadian music scene, Dala is now poised to bring their fresh brand of acoustic pop music to the world. Drawing upon influences like The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and Bob Dylan, Dala writes songs that are both catchy and insightful. Amanda’s ethereal soprano voice blends seamlessly with Sheila’s velvety alto, creating the lush harmonies that have become their trademark. Continued on page 47
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 27
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Steve Solomon Continued from pg. 11
Steve has written four additional sequels to his original hit: My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m STILL in Therapy; his hilarious holiday show: My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m Home for the Holidays!; The Battle of the Broadway Comedians and Cannoli, Latkes & Guilt... the therapy continues. Last year, Steve rewrote his original hit show and brought back some of his audience’s favorite characters in all new, updated hilarious scenarios. Steve’s shows are currently touring the United States, Canada and South Africa and have received critical acclaim including winning The Connecticut Critics Circle Award, The San Francisco Drama Desk nomination, Broadway.com Best new off-Broadway play, and Broadway World Audience Favorite Play. His latest project is a new book and screenplay about his (late in life) adventures in the entertainment business. It’s a real-life “Rocky” story entitled: From Brooklyn to Broadway in ONLY 50 years.
Riders In The Sky Continued from pg. 13
Riders In The Sky began their journey as three young men with drive and wit who wanted to keep a special music alive. They believed in preserving the heritage of Western Music and presenting it to a new generation. They believed in entertaining, and they did so— entertaining themselves as well as the audience! They believed in creating original Western Music to continue the tradition, not just seal it in amber as a museum piece. Over 40 years ago, Ranger Doug, Too Slim and the late Windy Bill Collins played their first show on a bitter cold evening of November 11, 1977, at Herr Harry’s Frank N’ Stein Rathskeller in Nashville, and small listening room dates followed. By August of the following year, demand was building, and while Windy Bill left, Woody Paul joined, and the true professional beginnings of the band began at the Kentucky State Fair, where the trio played for 10 days. A first wave followed, including appearances on Austin City Limits; recording contracts with Rounder, then MCA, then Columbia;
Riders In The Sky are the only exclusively Western artists to have won a Grammy.
guest appearances on the Grand Ole Opry leading to membership in 1982; and a threeyear run on The Nashville Network with a TV show called Tumbleweed Theater—which led to a seven-year run on public radio with Riders Radio Theater. People Magazine, interested in the Riders phenomenon, ran a story that caught the eye of a Hollywood producer. And so, the second wave broke, sending the boys to Hollywood to star in Riders In The Sky on CBS for a year on Saturday mornings, introducing them to yet another generation. More recordings, endless show dates, and television appearances followed for a decade before the fine folks at Pixar called and asked the quartet—by this time they had been joined by Joey the Cowpolka King—to sing a tune called “Woody’s Roundup” in the movie Toy Story 2. Thus, the third wave began, highlighted by a number of projects for Disney, including two albums, both of which won GRAMMY® Awards! The creation of satellite radio has recently given them a new platform, as they continue to produce episodes of the award winning Classic Cowboy Corral on Sirius/XM. Still more road dates and recordings (several on their own Riders Radio Records label) and other film and television projects have filled the days and weeks and years, and the
numbers begin to add up: an astonishing 7,200+ appearances, 35 years on the Grand Ole Opry, 40 albums and tours of all 50 states and all over the world. Honors accumulated as well. In addition to the two Grammy Awards, Riders received numerous awards from the Western Music Association, including the highest: membership in the Western Music Hall of Fame; numerous Wrangler awards from the Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Museum; awards from the Academy of Western Artists; enshrinement in the Walkway of Western Stars and more. What began as a celebration of classic Western Music and an evening of hilarity has become a career, and that career has become a legend, one which, over 40 years on, shows no signs of stopping.
PERFORMER BIOS RANGER DOUG Guitarist Ranger Doug, “Governor of the Great State of Rhythm,” sings lead and baritone vocals with an ever-present big grin and warm twinkle in his eyes. A yodeler of breathtaking technique, he is also an award-winning Western music songwriter in his own right— and a distinguished music historian whose 2002 Vanderbilt University Press book Singing in the Saddle was the first comprehensive look at the singing cowboy phenomenon that swept the country in the 1930s. OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 31
Celebrating Over 20 Years of the Arts
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TOO SLIM Upright “bunkhouse” bassist Too Slim, easily the sharpest wit in the West, was, prior to the Riders, a janitor, industrial galvanizer, puppeteer, rumor-monger, hay stacker, burlesque show emcee, sportswriter, wildlife manager and electric bassman. Besides his superb bass play and comic genius, he has inspired thousands to whack out tunes on their basses. WOODY PAUL Woody Paul, “King of the Cowboy Fiddlers,” sings lead and tenor vocals, and gained early experience in country-western music by hanging out with the likes of Roy Acuff. When not dazzling Riders fans with his fiddle, he’s thrilling them with intricate rope tricks that he swears he’ll get right before his career is over. JOEY Accordionist Joey, the CowPolka King, “plays both ends against the middle,” as they say, on his “stomach Steinway.” The master musician, who apprenticed with the late polka king Frank Yankovic and has recorded with everyone from Roy Rogers to U2, is also the Riders’ album producer.
Sir James Galway Continued from pg. 15
BIOGRAPHY A native of Northern Ireland, Galway began his flute studies in Belfast. At the age of 16, he was awarded a scholarship to the Royal College of Music, followed by studies at the Guildhall School of Music and Paris Conservatoire. At the age of 21, he embarked on his orchestral career in London’s major opera and symphonic orchestras. He took up the coveted position of solo flutist with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra under Herbert von Karajan in 1969, before becoming one of the very first flutists to establish an international solo career in 1975. He has a vast discography with 98 albums to his name.
Academy, Sir James and Lady Galway’s educational platform, enables them to nurture and mentor flutists of all levels through their various programs (galwayfluteacademy.com). Current teaching residencies include the Royal Irish Academy Dublin, Ireland; The Royal College of Music London and The Birmingham Conservatoire, UK; and The Frost School of Music - University of Miami, USA, where he was awarded an honorary doctorate of Music and presented the commencement address in May 2018. He has played for such dignitaries as Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II, President Clinton, President George W. Bush, President George H.W. Bush, Prince Charles, Princess Diana and UK Prime Minister David Cameron. He performed with Pink Floyd in their memorable concert at the Berlin Wall (1990), was part of the Nobel Peace concert in Norway (1990) and performed at the G Seven summit hosted by Queen Elizabeth II in Buckingham Palace (1991). Among the many honors and awards for his musical achievements are the Gramophone 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award, the Grammy President’s Merit Award, Classic Brits Lifetime Achievement Award, The Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, The National Concert Hall Dublin Lifetime Achievement Award, the Kennedy Center Gold Medal in the Arts and 2018 Churchill Award for services to Music. In December 2009, Sir James was awarded the honor of being made the first Artist Laureate of the Ulster Orchestra. He has
been honored twice by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, with The Order of the British Empire in 1979 and again in 2001 with a Knighthood for his services to music. Most recently he has been awarded the honor of Commander of the Order of Arts & Letters, one of the main distinctions among the ministerial orders of the French Republic. Galway lives with his wife in Switzerland and currently plays on a Platinum ‘Galway’ Nagahara Flute—especially commissioned for him.
LADY GALWAY An accomplished flutist, Lady Jeanne Galway continues to grace the international platforms with her virtuosity. One of the leading female flute soloists of the decade, Lady Galway brings to the audience her unique style and elegance. Appearing regularly as the premiere flute duo partner with her husband Sir James Galway, the two delight audiences and bring a rare freshness to the platform, unique in the music world. In addition to her highly successful career as a soloist, Lady Galway is also an accomplished chamber musician, touring regularly with various chamber ensembles. A strong advocate for the importance of music education in the school system, Lady Galway has recently taken to public speaking at various international education conferences. Lady Galway’s versatile concert engagements include performances in the presence of The
Continued on page 37
“Galway charms the audience with wit, virtuosity and stamina. Nothing can compare to a Galway performance.” - The Richmond Register
A strong supporter of the arts and charitable causes, Galway devotes much of his free time to furthering music education, sharing his wisdom and experience with the musical generation of tomorrow. The Galway Flute OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 33
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broadcasts for Jim Cullum’s Riverwalk Jazz series. Shelly Berg has performed, recorded and arranged for renowned jazz vocalists Patti Austin, Nancy Wilson, Bobby McFerrin, Kurt Elling, Carmen Bradford and performed and/ or recorded with a “who’s who” of jazz legends including Ray Brown, Louie Bellson, John Clayton, Eddie Daniels, Peter Erskine and Branford Marsalis to name just a few. A finalist in the 1988 Great American Jazz Piano Competition, Berg has recorded over 30 disks for the Yamaha Disklavier piano. His composing and orchestrating for television includes ABC’s Fudge, CBS’s A League of Their Own and HBO’s Dennis Miller Live. He has performed on television with Zac Brown, Mark Anthony, Gloria Estefan, James Taylor, Garth Brooks, Tricia Yearwood, Prince Royce, Patti LaBelle, Mariah Carey and has orchestrated for Chicago, KISS, Carole King, Richard Marx, Joe Cocker, Elliott Smith, Lou Rawls, Steve Miller, Yoshiki and X Japan among others.
Lady Galway and Sir James Galway
Empress of Japan, HRH The Earl and Countess of Wessex, TRH The Duke and Duchess of Kent, The Queen of Norway, The Queen of Spain, UK Prime Minister David Cameron, President Shimon Peres, President Mary McAleese, President Michael D. Higgins and Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny. Lady Galway serves as a patron to the charity Future Talent headed by the Duchess of Kent and Ambassador of The European Brain Council. Her versatile concert engagements are often for fundraising events for UNICEF, SOS, FARA and Marie Curie Cancer Care. She has recorded to critical acclaim for RCA Victor, Sony BMG Classics and Deutsche Grammophon. Irish America Magazine awarded Sir James and Lady Jeanne Galway the 2008 Spirit of Ireland award in recognition for their roles as musical ambassadors. Lady Galway is a native of New York and graduate and former member of the Flute Faculty of New York City’s Mannes College of Music. She is currently performing on an 18 carat gold Nagahara flute.
SHELTON G. BERG Shelly Berg is a Steinway piano artist and
multi-GRAMMY® nominated arranger and producer. His latest album Gershwin Reimagined: An American in London with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is conducted by José Serebrier and produced by Gregg Field (Decca Gold). Berg was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals category as co-arranger of “I Loves You Porgy/ There’s a Boat That’s Leavin’ Soon for New York” from the album Rendezvous (2018). He was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocals category for his arrangement of “Be My Muse” on Lorraine Feather’s album Flirting with Disaster (2015), as well as his arrangement of “What a Wonderful World” on Gloria Estefan: The Standards (2014), and “Out There” on Lorraine Feather’s Tales of the Unusual (2013). He was also nominated for a Grammy as coproducer of Gloria Estefan: The Standards in the Best Traditional Pop Album category. Berg is the artistic advisor for Jazz Roots at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami, musical director of The Jazz Cruise and host of the show Generation Next on Real Jazz Sirius XM. He has appeared on numerous NPR radio
Film orchestration work includes Warner Bros. Almost Heroes and For Your Consideration, Fox’s Men of Honor, and the NBC mini-series The ’60s. He has written for the Royal Philharmonic, the American Symphony and orchestras worldwide. He composed the theme song to the 1986 U.S. Olympic Festival and orchestrated for the 10th anniversary of the coronation of Japan’s Emperor Akihito. Berg is the dean of the Phillip and Patricia
Shelton Berg photo by Daniel Azoulay OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 37
Mikey Bestebreurtje & Wilson Baker Proud Supporters of Opening Nights at Florida State University
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Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, a position he has held since June 2007. In addition to his leadership role as dean, he is the Patricia L. Frost Professor of Music and teaches classical improvisation classes and private piano students. He previously held the McCoy/Sample endowed professorship of jazz studies in the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California where he taught for 16 years. He is a past president of the International Association for Jazz Education (IAJE). In 2000, the Los Angeles
Times named him one of three “Educators for
the Millennium.” He has appeared as a performer and lecturer throughout the United States as well as in Canada, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Mexico, Europe, Japan and Israel.
PROGRAM Sonata Francis Poulenc (1899–1963) Allegro malinconico Cantilena
Presto giocoso Fantasie, Op. 79 Gabriel Fauré (1845–1924) Andantino Allegro
Concertino, Op. 107 Cecile Chaminade (1857–1944) Andante and Rondo, Op. 25 (with Lady Galway) Franz Doppler (1821–1883) INTERMISSION In Ireland Fantasy Hamilton Harty (1879–1941) Irish Folk Songs D. Overton Spinning Wheel She Moved Through the Fair The Star of the County Down Il Pastore Svizzero P. Morlacchi (1784–1831) Rigoletto Fantasie for Two Flutes & Piano,
George Hinchliffe’s UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN Continued from pg. 19
As soon as the members of George Hinchliffe’s UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN walk on stage, the audience feels that they are in safe hands, at home with friends who are totally in command of the art, craft and magic of the stage. Sitting in chamber group format, and dressed in formal evening
BIOGRAPHIES DAVE SUICH Dave has worked as a teacher, a drama/special needs specialist and is a Makaton signer. For many years he was a compere at Glastonbury Festival for the Theatre Stage. Dave has been with the Orchestra for 35 years and notes that he has “jammed with a Beatle and performed for a Rolling Stone” as well as discussed gardening with HRH Prince Charles. At the same Chamber Music Chicago Festival at which the Kronos String Quartet played “Purple Haze” in the 80s, Dave introduced the Ukulele Orchestra version of “Born To Be
wear, the group uses the limitations of the
Wild” to the North American audience.
instrument to create a musical freedom as it
When Dave is not touring with the Orchestra,
reveals unsuspected musical insights.
he may be found instead with his bluesy group,
At this point, the audience may well sit back,
The World Wide Whelks, or on his allotment.
all prior assumptions forgotten, and allow the
PETER BROOKE-TURNER
Orchestra, which has sixteen-handedly changed the face of the ukulele world, to give what the Independent raved as “the best musical entertainment in the country.”
The first gig, intended as a one-off bit of fun, was an instant sell out and led to national radio, TV, album recordings and international tours.
At over 6’5”, Peter Brooke-Turner may well be the tallest ukulele player in the world—he is certainly the tallest in the Ukulele Orchestra. He was born in Portugal and grew up in the Soviet Union, Brazil, America, Finland and Italy. After false starts on the violin, trumpet and guitar, he finally discovered the ukulele
Since then, the Orchestra has become what
and joined the Ukes in 1995.
the Observer called “a much loved institution”
He has released three albums under his
appearances all over the world. There have
with many well known showbiz names in the
giving thousands of concerts, TV and radio been tours in Britain, across Europe, Scandinavia, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, China, The United States of America, Canada and the North Pole. They also had the honor to perform, by invitation of The Prince of Wales, at the private 90th Birthday party of Her Majesty the Queen at Windsor Castle. The Ukulele Orchestra have released CDs and DVDs on their own independent label. The orchestra’s music has been used in films, plays and commercials. The Financial Times praised, “The
sophisticated sound they make—both percussive and melodic—is at once hilarious and heartfelt.”
M U S I C A L D I R E C TO R
pseudonym Tony Penultimate and has worked United Kingdom and has even lent his uke to Tiny Tim. He fronted his own Ukulele Kings rock group in the 90s. Peter has started the worlds first high altitude drama company—the ATTC (Airline Toilets Theatre Company) which has subsequently produced over 20 high-quality, low-budget songs, sketches and shows (all on Peter’s iPhone) from this often neglected performance area. They can be viewed online. BEN ROUSE Ben was born in Cornwall but grew up in Hampshire. At the age of 8 he began playing the drums, turning to the guitar at age 11. At
George Hinchliffe
23, Ben formed the rock band Purple Monkey,
M A N AG E M E N T
coast of England. At 25, he decided to learn
Jodi Cartwright
Op. 38 (with Lady Galway)
SOUND
Franz & Karl Doppler (1825–1900)
Andreas “Doc” Wiedenhoff
which became a popular band along the south the violin and mandolin and formed the folk duo, Teapot Junkies, releasing two albums of
Continued on page 43 OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 39
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George Hinchliffe’s Ukulele Orchestra approaches music from the perspective that no instrument should take itself too seriously. Photo by Allison Burke
original material. He went on to teach himself the saxophone, flute, trumpet and banjo.
At 30, Ben decided that a proper job might be necessary and earned himself a Higher National Diploma in electronics, but in 2007 he was
drawn back to music when he saw the Ukulele Orchestra perform on Jools Holland Hootenanny.
The next day he bought a ukulele and began performing and teaching workshops at festivals around the United Kingdom. In 2014,
he was invited to play with the Orchestra, and he has since toured America, China,
Europe, Scandinavia and the United Kingdom with them.
RICHIE WILLIAMS
King and Edwin Starr—this led him to meeting
a theatre show with Miranda Hart and was
George Hinchliffe, at that time playing the
one of the writers for the pilot episodes of
Hammond organ.
British Academy of Film and Television Arts
In 1985, George invited him to play baritone
nominated Miranda on the BBC. When she’s
ukulele in his new project with Kitty Lux—a Ukulele Orchestra. Within two years, Richie
offering training, workshops and advice.
juggled playing in two local bands with the
She joined the Ukulele Orchestra in 2003 and
Ukes gigs.
found it to be the perfect home for her colorful
Richie moved to Dorset in 2001. He has since
backstory.
traveled the world with the Ukes playing
WILL GROVE-WHITE
venues most musicians can only dream of! LEISA REA Leisa has worked as an actor, director, comedy writer and teacher. Her professional directorial
through his teens, including sharing the bill
won the Lloyds Theatre Challenge and was
and with Thin Lizzy at The Cavern. During
Since then, she has taught stand-up comedy
at 13. He played with many local bands
debut in 1991 of Oscar Wilde’s The Selfish Giant,
with Ralph McTell at Liverpool University
performed at the National Theatre in London.
Status Quo.
creative consultant for several organizations
had moved to Yorkshire, and for 10 years, he
Born in Liverpool, Richie took up the guitar
this time he also roadied for Frank Zappa and
not on tour with the Orchestra, Leisa is a
at the Soho Theatre, directed several smash-hit comedy shows, written and performed two
After studying music at college in Liverpool,
critically acclaimed solo shows and for some
played with Snake Davis on Motown tours
Will began playing with the UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN in 1989, when he was just 16 years old, after seeing them perform in a North London pub and pestering George endlessly for sheet music. After university, Will began a career directing and producing television documentaries, one of which won a Royal Television Society Award (as well as others that very much didn’t). Luckily, the Ukulele Orchestra took over and he’s been a musician ever since. His voice has
he moved to London in the 80s where he
time, was one half of the duo, Adams & Rea,
been described as “suitably insane-sounding”
who scooped the Musical Comedy Awards
backing Mary Wells, Martha Reeves, Ben E.
prize in 2009. Alongside this, Leisa co-created
by the New York Times. He can also balance a ukulele on his chin, which is useful.
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 43
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Will records his own solo albums and writes and produces music for television and radio. He’s written eight library music albums for Universal and Warner/Chappell, one of which won a Library Music Award in 2015 (they’re a bit like the Oscars only more prestigious). In 2014 he wrote the book Ukulele for Beginners for Hachette press.
He now lives in South London with his wife and two sons and is currently learning how to speak Welsh. JONTY BANKES Jonty was serenaded to sleep as a child by his father playing Bach on the cello. Inevitably, he learned to appreciate music and knew from an early age that he wanted to be a performer. His formative years were spent playing music and acting. He discovered and fell in love with the bass in 1972. After moving to London to try an acting career in 1980, he met Dave Suich and acted in his show until the bassist left and he took over; he changed from struggling actor to struggling musician. He supplemented his income as a London double decker bus driver and has since discovered he drove Will to school. Jonty became a full-time musician in the early 90s joining the orchestra in 1992 while also recording and touring with Ray Davis, Louisiana Red, Marcus Malone and John Mayall. He can also be heard whistling on many TV soundtracks and commercials.
Best Pop Instrumental. Performing worldwide and selling more than four million albums, he has found a form of creative expression that begins in jazz and expands beyond the limits of any single genre.
Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl to
Impressions, Botti’s 2012 Columbia Records release, is the latest in a stellar parade of albums—including When I Fall In Love (2004), To Love Again: The Duets (2005), Italia (2007), and the CD/DVD Chris Botti in Boston (2009)— that has firmly established him as a clarion voice in the American contemporary music scene. Playing with his uniquely expressive sound and soaring musical imagination, Botti is joined on the disc by featured artists Andrea Bocelli, Vince Gill, Herbie Hancock, Mark Knopfler and David Foster in a warm, intimate celebration of melodic balladry.
The Second City
With Impressions and the albums that preceded it, Chris Botti has thoroughly established himself as one of the important, innovative figures of the contemporary music world. Over the past three decades, Botti has recorded and performed with the best in music, including Sting, Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Josh Groban, Yo-Yo Ma, Michael Bublé, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, John Mayer, Andrea Bocelli, Joshua Bell, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and even Frank Sinatra. Hitting the road for as many as 300 days per year, Botti has also performed with many of the finest symphonies and at some of the world’s most prestigious venues from
the Sydney Opera House and the Real Teatro di San Carlo in Italy.
Continued from pg. 23
Rooted in the groundbreaking improvisational games of Viola Spolin, The Second City opened its doors on a snowy Chicago night in December of 1959, and a comedy revolution began. The small cabaret theater has grown to become the most influential and prolific comedy empire in the world, developing an entirely unique way of creating art and fostering generation after generation of superstars. Co-founded by Spolin’s son, Paul Sills, along with Howard Alk and Bernie Sahlins, The Second City was experimental and unconventional in its approach to both theater and comedy. Almost immediately, alumni of The Second City—including Alan Arkin, Joan Rivers, Fred Willard, Gilda Radner, Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi—launched the theater into the international spotlight. In 1976, Second City launched SCTV, which has been hailed as one of the greatest sketch
comedy series of all time. The two-time Emmy winner featured an all-star cast made up of Martin Short, Andrea Martin, Catherine
He currently lives in Germany and often performs as a guest bassist with various bands and supported Eric Clapton on the German leg of his 2018 stadium tour.
Chris Botti Continued from pg. 21
Since the release of his 2004 critically acclaimed album When I Fall In Love, Chris Botti has become the largest-selling American
instrumental artist. His success has crossed into audiences usually reserved for pop music. His ongoing association with PBS has led to four #1 jazz albums, as well as multiple Gold and Platinum albums. Most recently, his latest album Impressions won the GRAMMY® for
Throughout his career, Chris Botti has been nominated for five GRAMMYS®. Photo by Leann Mueller OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 45
19 20 s
shostakovIch trIumphant!
Opening Night!
French ImpressIons
September 14, 2019 Conrad Tao, Piano RAVEL s DEBUSSY s GERSHWIN
March 14, 2020 Chad Ibison, Guitar VERDI s RODRIGO SHOSTAKOVICH
holIday magIc!
Season Finale!
December 14, 2019 Carmen Bradford, Jazz Vocalist
ELLINGTON Nutcracker Suite & Much More!
Beethoven’s FIFth
January 18, 2020 Christopher Moore & Mark Clodfelter, Trumpets MIRANDA s BIZET s BEETHOVEN
ohlsson plays Brahms May 2, 2020 Garrick Ohlsson, Piano STRAUSS s LEHAR KORNGOLD s BRAHMS
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O’Hara, John Candy, Eugene Levy, Dave Thomas, Joe Flaherty and Rick Moranis. Today, The Second City is home to a worldclass entertainment company, continuing to produce premier talent in all three of its locations—Chicago, Toronto and Hollywood— and entertaining more than one million audience members a year. From Steve Carell to Keegan-Michael Key, Stephen Colbert to Tina Fey, Chris Farley to Mike Myers, Second City’s imprint is all over film, television and beyond. In addition to its stages, Second City Touring Companies perform electrifying revues and original productions across North America and abroad. Their creative collaborations have produced thrilling and critically acclaimed work in partnership with organizations like the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Norwegian Cruise Line, the New York Comedy Festival and the Chicago Bulls. Second City Training Centers in Chicago, Toronto, Hollywood and online teach thousands of students a year, and the opening of the Harold Ramis Film School in 2016 gave the world the first film school dedicated to comedy. Finally, Second City Works is an industry leader in bringing improv-based methodologies to businesses and organizations of all types.
Dala Continued from pg. 27
The sheer joy with which Dala performs is infectious, turning first-time listeners into instant fans. Dala is equally entertaining between songs, telling funny and down to earth stories that make every show unique. Dala has opened for artists such as Tom Cochrane, Stuart McLean of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s Vinyl Café, Richie
Havens and Arlo Guthrie. No strangers to the festival scene, Dala has also performed at The New Orleans Jazz Festival, The Edmonton Folk Festival, California’s Strawberry Festival and Mariposa. In 2009, Dala was the only
Dala’s CD and DVD from their PBS special Girls from the North Country was nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award.
Canadian act invited to play at the 50th
Dala’s own songs woven around classics by
Anniversary of the Newport Folk Festival.
Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Bob Dylan and
Dala’s album Everyone Is Someone was released
Gordon Lightfoot. The live CD and DVD for
fifth Canadian Folk Music Award nomination,
2010 Canadian Folk Music Award for “Vocal
in 2009 to critical acclaim. It earned them their a Toronto Independent Music Award for Best
Girls From The North Country earned Dala the
Group of the Year.” The live album was
Folk Group and it was touted by The Irish Post
nominated for a 2011 Juno Award in the
was nominated by National Public Radio in
Year: Group.
the United States as one of the “Top Ten folk
Dala’s latest album Best Day was released in
as the Album of the Year. The song “Horses”
songs of 2009.”
category Roots and Traditional Album of the
June of 2012. It was nominated for three
In the summer of 2010, Dala’s PBS special
Canadian Folk Music Awards: English
Girls From The North Country was broadcast
Songwriter of the Year, Vocal Group of the
across North America. The concert features
Year and Producer of the Year. OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 47
Your Support Advances the Performing Arts in Our Community As one of the premier university performing arts presenters, Opening Nights at Florida State University provides world-class cultural arts programs for the community and students both on and off campus. Your contribution raises the profile of FSU and Tallahassee to that of our nation’s most-renowned universities and cities in the caliber of performers it attracts. Whether it’s a contribution supporting student experiences, a performance sponsorship, or a legacy gift for future generations, investments of all sizes are essential for FSU’s continued role as a leading nonprofit university arts presenter.
Memberships Members enjoy numerous benefits, including priority ticket ordering, parking passes and invitations to exclusive events. We thank these champions of the arts and invite you to join them. Membership levels start at $100 with the Solo Level and go to $1,500 with the Producer’s Circle. Sponsorships start at $2,500. 4 8 | 2019–20 OPENING NIGHTS
Sponsorships Sponsorships provide a way for businesses to give back to the community and in return receive high profile recognition, tickets to performances, and exclusive benefits. Align your brand with world-class artistry while demonstrating your commitment to enriching communities in Northwest Florida.
More Ways to Give to Support the Performing Arts Through the years, Opening Nights at Florida State University has grown from a week-long arts festival to a full season of artistic programming and educational events. We have created two new philanthropic funds to continue to elevate the caliber of these artistic endeavors.
Help Us Usher in ON’s Silver Jubilee Opening Nights at Florida State University will soon be celebrating 25 years of bringing world-renowned artists to its campus and Florida’s Capital City. Help us make the 2022–23 Season the best ever by contributing to the Opening Nights Distinguished Artists Fund. Your donation will ensure that Opening Nights continues to distinguish itself as one of the premier performing arts programs in the country.
For details on ways to give, visit openingnights.fsu.edu
New Benefits Make Sponsorship and Membership Even More Appealing! For the 2020–21 Season, Opening Nights at Florida State University will be adding the following benefits:
Opening Nights Distinguished Artists Fund The purpose of the fund is to allow donors to contribute to Opening Nights’ general operating expenses for artistic programming so that FSU can continue as a leading performing arts presenter and subsidize student tickets. This fund also accepts honorary or memorial gifts and annual gifts.
• Exclusive Member Lounge for all ON Sponsors and Members at the Partner Level and above for performances at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall and Opperman Music Hall. • Reduced ticket prices for Sponsors and Members. Sponsors and Members enjoy advanced ticket purchasing before tickets go on sale to the public. Now, sponsors and members will also enjoy lower prices during their VIP advanced ticket purchasing period. When general onsale to the public begins, all tickets will be sold at face value. DATES WHEN PRIORITY TICKET PURCHASING BEGINS:
Sponsors: June 1 Producer’s Circle: June 8
Opening Nights in Class Fund
Partner: June 11
The purpose of the fund is to provide resources that enable Opening Nights to offer experiences, performances and workshops to students ranging from K-12 to college in the Big Bend area, with special attention to underserved populations.
Friend: June 15 Associate: June 19 Debut: June 22 Solo: June 26
Discover the ways to support ON that are most meaningful to you.
General On-Sale to the Public: July 1 OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 49
SPRING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS Sir James Galway and his wife, Lady Jeanne Galway, will host a master class as part of
the College of Music’s Wind Seminar. Students from a variety of musical backgrounds, including woodwind and brass students, will watch the Galways’ work with flutists, helping them perfect the art of performing in front of an audience. This master class is made possible through the Louise Ireland Humphrey Excellence Fund.
George Hinchliffe’s UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN will
pay a special visit to the City of Tallahassee’s Senior Center to work with local lifelong learners. This master class will highlight the talents of the Senior Center’s ukulele club and is open to the public.
The Second City is returning for the second year in a row and will host three workshops during their time in Tallahassee. They will offer a highly interactive workshop for Florida State University and Tallahassee Community College student actors that focuses on the building blocks of improvisation. Second City’s “Imployed” workshop will teach Florida State University College of Business Students tactics to manage nervousness and make the most of every employment opportunity.
The New 76ers will work with Opening Nights in Class to bring the history and fun of
folk music to the greater Big Bend area, including Jefferson, Gadsden and Wakulla counties. A folk band from Tallahassee, the New 76ers’ music comes from a collective respect and understanding for acoustic and electric music.
Michael Rosato, a muralist and FSU graduate, will visit students on FSU’s campus to discuss the art of commissioning socially meaningful projects in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors.
THANKS TO SPONSOR WALMART, MEMBERS OF THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF THE BIG BEND ATTENDED THE PRISM CONCERT.
EDUCATIONAL SPONSORS
FSU License Plate
50 | 2019–20 OPENING NIGHTS
LINDA J. SMITH, PhD
LOUSIE IRELAND HUMPREY EXCELLENCE FUND
YOU’RE INVITED! 2020-21
Season Announcement May 28 THE SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT PARTY IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! RUBY DIAMOND CONCERT HALL WE HAVE A SEAT WAITING FOR YOU!
Carlton Fields is pleased to sponsor the 2019-2020 season of Opening Nights at Florida State University. We celebrate the arts as an essential cornerstone of creativity and innovation.
www.carltonfields.com
OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU
52 | 2019–20 OPENING NIGHTS